"Hey," I whisper to Val, squeezing his hand in mine, secretly relishing the warmth that passes between us. "Don't worry about me Val. I can handle this."
Releasing my hand and allowing one brief moment to flash between us as his fingers brush against my own, he releases my hand from his, stepping back with a bow of his head. He seems reluctant to leave me- though whether that is through concern for me or himself I cannot tell.
"I have no doubt about that," he chuckles lightly under his breath, and with that laugh the pressure that had built up in the air around us seems to dissipate, scattered like the fog when the sun clears over the horizon. Leaning down, Val places his lips on top of my head.
"I am sorry you had to get caught up in this mess," he apologises softly, withdrawing himself back with a tangible effort. But before I can reply, Alastor is already at my side giving my arm a soft bump with his fist and grinning wildly.
